Top 10 Legendary Bowlers with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test Matches

The fourth innings of a Test match is where games are won or lost. The pitch is worn out, the pressure is immense, and every wicket is crucial. Only the most skilled and mentally strong bowlers can consistently deliver in these conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 bowlers who have taken the most wickets in the fourth innings of Test cricket showcasing their dominance in clutch situations.

Let’s dive deep into their legendary stats and achievements.

List of Top 10 Legendary Bowlers with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test Matches

10. Mitchell Johnson – The Fearless Enforcer

Mitchell Johnson, known for his pace and aggression, was a nightmare for batters, especially in the fourth innings. He bowled with intensity and often used reverse swing and short balls to disrupt settled batsmen. With his fiery spells, Johnson consistently broke partnerships when they mattered the most. His hostile approach made him one of the most effective fast bowlers in Test cricket during his era.

Johnson’s performance helped Australia win numerous tight contests, earning him a place among those with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test cricket.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
39	80	6/73	4

9. Stuart Broad – England’s Breakthrough Bowler

Stuart Broad made a name for himself as a match-winner, especially in clutch moments. His ability to bowl long spells and pick up crucial wickets in the final innings was key to England’s success in many Tests. Broad was often the go-to bowler when the team needed a breakthrough.

He ranks high on the list of players with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test matches thanks to his consistent contributions at vital junctures.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
58	90	7/44	2

8. James Anderson – The Swing Master

James Anderson’s ability to swing the ball both ways, even late in the day, gave him an edge in the fourth innings. His persistence, control, and experience helped him take wickets in conditions that were not always favourable for fast bowlers.

With remarkable discipline, Anderson earned a spot among those who have taken the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test cricket, especially in swing-friendly conditions.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
65	91	6/17	3

7. Anil Kumble – The Warrior Spinner

India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests, Anil Kumble, brought relentless accuracy and fighting spirit. In the fourth innings, when batters were tired and pitches were wearing, Kumble’s pace-through-the-air leg-spin produced match-turning spells.

His incredible 10-wicket haul is a testament to his excellence, making him one of the most successful bowlers with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test cricket.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
35	94	10/74	5

6. Ravichandran Ashwin – India’s Modern-Day Magician

Ashwin has redefined Indian spin bowling in the modern era. His skillful variations, including the carrom ball and sharp off-breaks, are highly effective in the fourth innings when the pitch deteriorates. He reads the batter well and attacks with intelligent field settings.

Ashwin stands as a strong contender among those with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test cricket and continues to be a match-winner for India.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
36	99	7/59	7

5. Glenn McGrath – Master of Line and Length

Glenn McGrath was Australia’s key weapon across all conditions. In the fourth innings, his metronomic accuracy, seam movement, and mental strength dismantled opposition lineups. His ability to hit the same spot repeatedly paid off handsomely.

McGrath’s consistency earns him a well-deserved place among the legends with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test matches.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
53	103	8/24	5

4. Muttiah Muralitharan – Sri Lanka’s Spin Icon

Muralitharan’s record in the fourth innings is phenomenal. His massive turn and deceptive variations made life miserable for batters. Whether at home or away, Murali delivered under pressure and claimed crucial scalps late in the match.

With relentless spells, Muralitharan cemented his place as one of the bowlers with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test cricket.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
35	106	8/46	7

3. Rangana Herath – Sri Lanka’s Finisher

Herath took over from Muralitharan and proved to be a master in the fourth innings. Left-arm spin, subtle changes in pace, and use of the crease made him deadly on turning tracks. His ability to run through batting orders was unmatched.

Herath holds one of the most impressive records for the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test cricket, especially for Sri Lanka.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
40	115	8/63	12

2. Nathan Lyon – Australia’s Trusted Spinner

Nathan Lyon has been Australia’s most consistent performer with the ball in the fourth innings. His ability to generate bounce and spin on all kinds of surfaces makes him extremely effective late in the game.

Lyon continues to rise up the charts for the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test cricket and remains a dependable spinner.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
60	123	7/152	6

1. Shane Warne – King of the Fourth Innings

Topping the list is the legendary Shane Warne. When the game reached its climax, Warne would often deliver magical spells. With sharp turn, drift, and unmatched cricketing intelligence, Warne was a nightmare for batters on worn-out pitches.

Warne remains the top bowler with the Most Wickets in the 4th Innings of Test matches, leaving behind a legacy of thrilling match-winning spells.

Matches	Wickets	Best Figures	5-Wicket Hauls
53	138	8/71	7

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